Hi I’m Tanya Campbell, my parents moved from Maryland to Colorado when I was about four, so I’m pretty much a native. They chose Colorado for its beautiful weather and sunny days, and I couldn’t be more happy with their choice. Ever since I was little I can remember my parents encouraging me to travel and learn about other cultures, arts and gain real-life experience. So it’s not surprising that my first passion became travel and my second became interior design. I graduated from ACC with an Interior Design degree in 1996. Then returned to school and graduated from UCD summa cum laude with a BA in Art History in 2005. Going back to school in my thirties opened my mind. I had already traveled a good deal, but school made me think more philosophically. I gained a broader perspective and a curiosity to learn more, especially about humanity.

Over the last couple years I have embarked on a quest to cultivate and understand my inner person and develop spiritually. In that effort I traveled to Peru with a Shaman as our tour guide. He insisted that the trip involve a component of service to the community. I wasn’t at first overly excited by the prospect, but wanted to help at the same time. The town of Ica had experienced an earthquake and many of the houses and buildings had collapsed in rubble. Many lives had also been lost. They were living in tents or a four ft square with woven mats as walls and ceiling. However, despite coping with this tragedy, the people were welcoming and proved to be some of the most genuine, beautiful, open-hearted and loving people I’d ever met. We spent a few days helping with whatever we could – repairing a roof, fire ceremonies, healings and playing with the children. We bought them food and toys, but what they wanted most was our time and company. I had traveled to many parts of the world, but this trip was different. I came back to Colorado with a new perspective on what’s important in life and for me it’s not the material things. I enjoy them, but what really makes my life fulfilling is appreciating what I’ve been given and giving in return.

Participating in the Love, Hope, Strength Pikes Peak Hike is one of the ways I can give. I’ve been fortunate in that cancer has not struck any of my immediate family. However, I truly believe that we are one big family. Therefore, cancer affects all of us and we need to look after one another and be of service when given the opportunity. I’ve been given this opportunity and am excited and honored to be able to participate.

Thank you and much love, Tanya